Junior Vaivai

BREAKING CLEAR: Junior Vaivai with a great second-half break which set up Chris Atkin's try. (Image: RLPIX)

Dragged into the squad at the eleventh hour for last week’s Super League clash at Warrington Wolves – following Minns’ hasty removal from the squad – Vaivai was granted his Robins debut a week earlier than anticipated.

The USA international partnered Justin Carney on the left edge at the Halliwell Jones Stadium and showed bright sparks of play, particularly for Chris Atkin’s second half score when making a great break upfield.

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It is anticipated that this week we will see more of Vaivai as he’s set to keep the left-centre role for the trip to Bower Fold to face Oldham Roughyeds in the Challenge Cup fifth-round.

Liam Salter

ALL SMILES: Hull KR's Liam Salter. (Image: Peter Harbour)

The most experienced of the KR group in the centre role, but has played in just over half of Rovers’ fixtures this term. Salter is dependable in defence and whilst he may lack the attacking prowess of his colleagues, you know you’re going to get a solid performance from the local lad.

It’s likely that with Andrew Heffernan’s injury through concussion, Salter will be over on the right edge in Manchester this weekend and possibly during next week’s Super League clash with Leeds Rhinos.

Andrew Heffernan

As previously mentioned, the Australian is being rested because of his third concussion problem of the year. It is becoming a worry for Heffernan and the club but they will continue to monitor the situation and Sheens will only play the former Penrith youngster if he’s 100 per cent.

There is no doubting that Heffernan’s offence is a key part of KR’s playbook and the sooner he is out on the pitch in a healthy state, the better.

Will Oakes

Hull KR's Will Oakes

The England Academy and Scotland international hasn't featured for Rovers' first team so far in 2018 but could be set for a call-up this weekend against Oldham Roughyeds.

The youngster has explosive pace and considerable strength despite his tender age, and is tipped for big things in the game, where he can play wing, centre or full-back.

Maurice Blair

Plugging the gap on more than one occasion during 2018 and in previous campaigns, second-rower by trade Blair is another option for Tim Sheens. The 2016 Player of the Year, who has continually impressed over the last few weeks, played extremely well in that position during the recent win over Widnes Vikings and KR wouldn’t rule out placing the Australian there again in future matches if needs be.

A New centre?

Hull KR coach Tim Sheens. (Image: Paul D Smith Photography)

Now, we know Rovers are in the market. Not only has an experienced half-back been on the agenda for some time, but Shaun Lunt’s absence has also prompted suggestions that KR will look to buy a replacement hooker for the next two months.

But will a new centre arrive in east Hull to fill Minns’ boots? At this stage, I’m not sure if that’s a priority for Sheens with the well-being of the Leeds native being at the top of their list but for recruitment next season, perhaps, Sheens will need to keep a look-out for a new outside-back.